A recent study conducted by Dr. Rowena Packer and Dr. Dan O’Neill from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has shed light on the health of designer poodle-cross breeds, which have seen a surge in popularity in the UK in recent years. The researchers found that while the health of these designer breeds is not worse than their parent breeds, it is also not better.
The study highlights the importance of prospective owners being cautious when purchasing designer cross-breeds, as they are at a high risk of coming from poor welfare sources such as puppy farms and illegal imports. This could have a negative impact on the future health and welfare of these dogs.
Dr. O’Neill emphasized that avoiding extreme body shapes, such as flattened faces and bulging eyes, is crucial for ensuring the health of any dog, whether purebred or a designer cross-breed. He also pointed out that the assumptions many people make about designer cross-breeds, such as being hypoallergenic or good with children, are not well-evidenced.
Overall, the study underscores the importance of purchasing dogs from breeders who prioritize health and temperament over looks in their breeding decisions. The researchers hope that their findings will help prospective dog owners make informed decisions when choosing a pet. The study has been published in PLOS One.
Source
Photo credit www.telegraph.co.uk